The Absolute Universe offers a new take on DC Comics‘ most popular heroes. For the most part, the comics making up the Absolute line have been experimental. They have changed the usual circumstances for most of the characters involved and Absolute Green Lantern is no exception. However, the latest issue took an unusual step in restoring a classic element of Green Lantern mythology.
The story of Absolute Green Lantern is split between two points in time. In the present, Hal Jordan is on the run and possess a dark power he cannot explain. Hal’s story alternates with flashbacks to five days earlier, in Hal’s hometown of Evergreen, California. The town was encased within a barrier of green light, with a being named Abin Sur informing the populace that “judgement is in progress.” Just what this judgement entailed was not explained. However, Abin Sur reacted badly to people who responded to him violently. He also made Sheriff Guy Gardner disappear, after Guy lowered his gun and asked Abin Sur to explain himself.
(Image Source: DC / Jahnoy Lindsay)
Absolute Green Lantern #3 by Al Ewing and Jahony Lindsay opens with architect John Stewart examining the barrier. The eternal optimist and intellectual of the circle of friends including Hal, Guy, and Jo Mullien, Stewart seeks to find a way to break through the barrier before Evergreen starves to death. Though his observations, John finds the solution he was searching for. However, he is unable to explain any logic behind his discovery.
John Stewart determines that the barrier will allow objects made of gold to pass through it. He bases this on the fact that the gold earring worn by a biker passed through the barrier after he crashed into it. He further determines that gold-painted objects (like one of Hal’s collectibles) can also bend back the green light. Pure gold, however, seems to provoke a stronger disruption.
(Image Source: DC / Jahnoy Lindsay)
Comic readers will recognize this as a reference to the classic weakness of the Green Lantern Corps. Originally, the Power Rings created by the Guardians of the Universe could not effect yellow objects. This was said to be due to a necessary impurity, though the Guardians could remove the weakness if they desired. Later, it was said that sufficiently strong-willed Corps members could overcome the weakness. This is apparently not the case in the Absolute Universe, where John Stewart could easily throw a gold ring through Abin Sur’s barrier.
Absolute Green Lantern #3 is now available at comic shops everywhere.